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Machine Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Machine Operator

Lenox, IA · On-site

$14.25 - $17/hr

Job Title: Machine Operator (Tube Cut-Off) Division: Precision Pulley and Idler (PPI) Location ... Must be able to occasionally lift and/or move more than 50 pounds of equipment with assist ...

Machine Operator

Red Oak, IA · On-site

$22.67 - $26.67/hr

Machine Operator (PowerFrame) Location: Red Oak, IA | Components Plant Pay: Starting at $22.67 to ... Inspect equipment and parts for quality, ensuring conformance to specifications * Assist ...

Machine Operator

Red Oak, IA · On-site

$22.67 - $26.67/hr

Machine Operator (PowerFrame) Location: Red Oak, IA | Components Plant Pay: Starting at $22.67 to ... Inspect equipment and parts for quality, ensuring conformance to specifications * Assist ...

IHOP Dish Machine Operators (DMO) will be responsible for cleaning and maintaining dishware ... deliveries Assist other staff members with tasks when the need arises Adhere to food safety ...

IA · On-site

$22.05/hr

Operates and tends automated machinery that performs one or more liquid bottling packaging functions, to assist in meeting assembly line production schedules. * Ability to learn multiple pieces of ...

Showing results 41-60

Machine Assistant information

See Iowa salary details

$12

$16

$21

How much do machine assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for machine assistant in Iowa is $16.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.34 and $18.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a machine assistant?

Machine assistants are workers who help operate, maintain, and monitor machinery in various industries, such as manufacturing, packaging, or construction. They typically assist machine operators by preparing materials, loading and unloading machines, performing routine maintenance, and ensuring equipment runs smoothly. Machine assistants play a key role in supporting efficient production processes and workplace safety. Their responsibilities may vary depending on the industry and the type of machinery they work with.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a machine assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Machine Assistant, you need basic mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with industrial machinery, safety protocols, and possibly certifications such as OSHA training are commonly required. Reliability, teamwork, and strong communication skills help you efficiently support machine operators and maintain a safe work environment. These skills ensure smooth production processes, reduce downtime, and uphold workplace safety standards.

What are some common challenges faced by machine assistants when supporting production machinery, and how can these be managed?

Machine Assistants often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting minor mechanical issues, maintaining consistent production speed, and ensuring safety protocols are strictly followed. Adapting to rapidly changing production schedules and learning to operate different types of machinery can also be demanding. These challenges can be managed by proactively communicating with supervisors, following maintenance schedules, and seeking training opportunities to become more familiar with various equipment. Team collaboration and attention to detail are key to effectively overcoming daily obstacles in this role.

What is the difference between Machine Assistant vs Machine Operator?

AspectMachine AssistantMachine Operator
Required CertificationsBasic technical training, safety certificationsMore advanced certifications, specialized training
Work EnvironmentAssists in machine setup and maintenance, often in manufacturing or production settingsOperates machinery directly, monitors performance, and adjusts controls
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in manufacturing, assembly lines, and production facilitiesPrimarily in manufacturing, construction, and industrial plants

While both roles support manufacturing processes, a Machine Assistant typically assists with setup, maintenance, and support tasks, whereas a Machine Operator directly controls and manages machinery during operation. The roles differ mainly in responsibility level and required certifications, with Machine Operators generally needing more specialized training.

What are the most commonly searched types of Machine jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Machine jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Machine Assistant jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Machine Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Machine Assistant job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,269 per year, or $17 per hour.

CNC/Machine Mechanic

Independence, IA • On-site

Geater Machining & Manufacturing, Co.
51 - 200 employees

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Position Summary:
The basic function of the CNC/Machine Mechanic is to repair machinery, mechanical equipment, and production machines of GMM and coordinate with the maintenance team.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.
  • Perform preventive and corrective maintenance on CNC machines and manufacturing equipment.
  • Diagnose and repair mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic problems.
  • Troubleshoot CNC machine controls, motors, drives, sensors, switches, and related components.
  • Inspect machines for wear, damage, alignment issues, and potential failures.
  • Perform machine setup, calibration, leveling, and alignment as required.
  • Read and interpret mechanical drawings, electrical schematics, manuals, and technical documentation.
  • Replace or repair bearings, belts, gears, motors, pumps, valves, tooling components, and other machine parts.
  • Assist with installation new CNC equipment and other machinery.
  • Maintain accurate records of repairs, inspections, and preventive maintenance activities.
  • Work with production and management teams to identify recurring equipment problems and improve machine reliability.
  • Follow all company safety procedures, OSHA requirements, and lockout/tagout (LOTO) practices.
  • Respond promptly to machine breakdowns and emergency maintenance calls.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe maintenance work area.
  • Initiate purchase order for replacement/ repair items.
  • Contact service people for repairs that they are unable to repair (major mechanical or electrical).
  • Help train other maintenance personnel to help with repair/install of machinery

Qualifications:
To perform this job successfully an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Read, write and speak English fluently.
  • Skillfully and safely operate fork truck, machinery and mechanical equipment.
  • Work under time and budgetary pressures.
  • Read, analyze, interpret safety information, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.
  • Speak effectively with customers and employees of organization.
  • Calculate figures and basic math skills.
  • Demonstrate effective organization and planning skills.
  • Computer literate.
  • Work well in a team environment, demonstrate good communication skills, maintain a positive attitude and willingness to learn.

Education and/or Experience:
  • Record of High School Diploma, GED or equivalent work experience.
  • Associate's degree (A.A) or equivalent from two-year technical school; or 5+ years of direct related experience as a CNC/Machine Mechanic; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Physical Demands:
  • Sitting, standing, and walking.
  • Use of fingers, hands and arms to handle, grip, and grasp objects, controls, parts, tools and to operate required equipment; and reach, push and pull with hands and arms.
  • Frequently lifting and/or moving up to 25 pounds, and occasionally lifting and/or moving up to 50 pounds with assistance.
  • Being able to see (20/25 vision with or without glasses) and hear (with mechanical assistance if necessary) sufficient to understand and comprehend individual one-on-one conversations.
  • Steel toed shoes are a requirement for this position.

Work Environment:
This person will work in a manufacturing environment which is temperature controlled for internal work within the building. Work in the warehouse or external to the building is not. The person will be working near moving mechanical parts and in high places. This setting involves manufacturing equipment with others working in close proximity.
PPE Requirements:
  • Safety glasses
  • Steel-toed shoes